Tomlinson Hall will undergo renovations this summer
Originally posted in The Case Western Reserve Observer, written by: Maria Burrus, Staff Writer
The Department of Campus Planning and Facilities Management began renovating the first floor of Tomlinson Hall early April and is expected to finish by August, just in time for the fall 2026 semester. The project is projected to cost around $3.7 million.
This follows the university’s recent renovations to student life in Adelbert Gymnasium, Olin Building, several residence halls and the construction of the new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISEB), CWRU’s largest-ever project on the Case Quad. ISEB was designed with the idea of fostering collaboration across engineering, technology and other STEM fields. This will likely lead to increased foot traffic on the quad due to the addition of new dining options for students and faculty.
The renovation plans include a new food service option with seating areas for eating and studying. A wide range of quick-service options will be available, including a coffee bar and Mediterranean food. The traditional coffee shop will include crepes, smoothies and gelato, while the Mediterranean restaurant will have sandwiches, salads and bowls. There will be a mix of vegan, vegetarian and halal meals available. The options will use a combination of mobile and kiosk ordering.
“We are committed to keeping campus dining experiences fresh and engaging,” Christine Torrence, Associate Vice President for Campus Services, said. “Each year, we conduct surveys to better understand what is working well and where we can improve.”
The first floor is only phase one of the renovation. Next year, the ground floor will be updated with an upgraded layout and seating area, expanded service points and new menu options.
“This initiative represents a key step in advancing our long-term vision by enhancing and modernizing our dining program to match the bold, welcoming new gateway to CWRU,” Jim Bolland, Resident District Manager for Bon Appétit, said.
The university partnered with the Student Food Committee, University Student Government and Residence Hall Association to develop these new dining services to fit the needs of students. The common themes that were present in student feedback included a desire for more diverse and faster meal options. Bon Appétit held pop-up events to test students’ thoughts on the new food concepts, and Campus Services will continue to collect student feedback and data even after the space opens to gauge student satisfaction.
Overall, the Tomlinson Hall renovation shows CWRU’s consistent efforts to modernize the campus, especially in areas that benefit student needs. By integrating more diverse, convenient and inclusive dining options alongside new study areas, this new space will create another prominent spot on the Case Quad.
The Case Western Reserve Observer
